Recent Blog Posts
Tips for using a power of attorney for one’s financial assets
A power of attorney can become a critical tool if someone in Florida becomes incapacitated. That’s because POAs can be used for both medical and financial purposes and can help a testator when they really need it the most. Just like making health decisions, the ability to make financial choices for the testator is… Read More »
Three estate planning tips to take before diving into summer
School’s out for summer! Almost. But before you pull out those board shorts, grab that sunscreen and head to the beach, it is a good idea to take a few steps to make sure your house is in order – your financial house. A big part of keeping your finances in order involves having… Read More »
Estate planning tips: Children with special needs
Planning for your family’s future financial needs can be intimidating. It leads to a myriad of questions. How much will it cost to keep the house? What should I set aside for medical and dental bills? What about college costs? These questions multiply when a member of the family has special needs. Special needs… Read More »
Strategies that can leave beneficiaries additional assets
One of the established goals of estate planning in Florida is to try and make sure that more of the testator’s assets are left to his or her beneficiaries. That’s because taxes, lingering debts and the probate process can be expensive and take a sizable chunk out of an estate’s assets. But there are… Read More »
What are some steps executors in Florida can take?
Being an executor of an estate in Florida can be a little intimidating. After all, there’s a lot of responsibility that’s abruptly thrust upon that person. One moment, they’re living their normal life, and then suddenly they have to make significant decisions about the estate for a family member or friend who has just… Read More »
When a Prince errs: Learn from the star’s estate planning mistakes
Even Hollywood royalty can make mistakes. This was highlighted by the recent revelation that music mega-star Prince did not have a will. The star’s mistake provides an opportunity for countless others to learn from this error. Prince was not alone; failing to put together a will is one of the four most common estate… Read More »
How important is estate planning for singles?
Most Floridians know that estate planning is essential, especially if they have a spouse and children. Good estate planning, including a will, is the best way to express one’s final wishes to their heirs. But, what if someone is not married and has no children? Is estate planning just as important for a single… Read More »
Simple estate planning steps that can provide real benefits
Most Florida estate planning experts agree that Floridians do not need to be wealthy to enjoy the benefits of a good estate plan. A good estate plan can help ensure that all of the testator’s wishes are properly carried out. However, it also does not matter if the testator is a financial mogul or… Read More »
Do’s and don’ts on leaving a trust as a beneficiary for an IRA
When it comes to estate planning, some Florida residents are like ostriches and bury their head in an attempt not to think about it. However, there is one estate planning technique that must not be ignored or considered lightly. It must be carefully thought out and the benefits weighed against the disadvantages. This procedure… Read More »
What estate tax issue can now also benefit same sex couples?
Until recently, same sex couples could not take advantage of the same tax implications benefits that heterosexual couples could. That changed on June 25 of 2015 with the Supreme Court’s ruling on the legality of gay marriage. But that historic decision did more than just grant same sex couples the right to get married… Read More »